The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has urged Indian exporters and industry to make greater use of free trade agreements (FTAs) and government export promotion schemes to convert available market access into higher shipments.
The DGFT highlighted the need for businesses to understand and utilise the tariff concessions, preferential market access and other benefits available under India’s trade agreements. Industry has also been encouraged to align its export strategies with the opportunities emerging from recently concluded and operational FTAs.
Officials stressed that signing trade agreements alone is not sufficient to increase exports. Exporters need to actively use the benefits offered under these agreements, including preferential duties and simplified market access, to improve their competitiveness in overseas markets.
The DGFT also called for wider utilisation of export promotion schemes designed to reduce trade costs and support exporters. Greater awareness among businesses, particularly small and medium-sized exporters, was identified as important for improving the uptake of these schemes.
The push comes as India seeks to expand its presence in global markets and diversify its export destinations. Effective utilisation of FTAs and export support measures could help Indian businesses access new markets, strengthen price competitiveness and increase the value of merchandise exports.
The DGFT is expected to continue working with industry associations and exporters to address implementation challenges and improve awareness of available trade benefits.